Five individuals are set to appear in the Ba Magistrate Court today as part of an ongoing investigation linked to a significant drug seizure in Vatia. The individuals include a 49-year-old foreign national, a 33-year-old unemployed woman, a 40-year-old boat captain, as well as a 34-year-old and a 39-year-old self-employed individuals, all hailing from Suva.
The group has been charged after consultations with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) with conspiracy to commit the importation of illicit drugs, according to Section 49 of the Crimes Act 2009 and Section 8 of the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004. The accusations suggest that between November 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026, the five collaborated with one another and others in an unlawful scheme to import, transport, transfer, and store a staggering 2,644 kilograms of illicit drugs.
Furthermore, the foreign national is facing additional charges, specifically two counts of possession of items believed to be proceeds of crime under Section 70 (1) of the Proceeds of Crimes Act 1997. In a similar vein, both the 33-year-old woman and the 34-year-old self-employed man have also been charged with a count of possession of items believed to be proceeds of crime.
The Fiji Police Force has indicated that their investigation team will pursue further leads arising from this case, highlighting a commitment to tackling drug-related crimes in the region. As the case unfolds in court, it reflects ongoing efforts by authorities to address and combat drug trafficking and its consequent impact on society.
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